REAR-ADMIRAL DUFEK

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28765, 10 December 1958, Page 24

REAR-ADMIRAL DUFEK

Tributes By Fuchs And Hillary

(New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, Dec. 9.

Sir Vivian Fuchs and Sir Edmund Hillary have presented an autographed copy of their book, “The Crossing of Antarctica,’’ to Rear-Admiral George Dufek in appreciation of his help to the Commonwealth Transantarctic expedition.

The book was handed to Admiral Dufek at a reception given by the American Ambassador (Mr Francis H. Russell) in honour of Admiral Dufek, who is retiring from the command of the United States Antarctic expedition.

Sir Vivian Fuchs inscribed the book: “In appreciation of your repeatedly expressed confidence that the expedition would succeed, with many thanks for all that you did for Sir Edmund Hillary and Scott Base, and not forgetting the United States air-drop of much needed oxygen while we were still on the Antarctic plateau." Sir Edmund Hillary wrote: “To my old friend, George Dufek, in deep appreciation of the support, both moral and physical, that you gave to us in the Antarctic.” The Prime Minister (Mr Nash) also autographed the book, thanking Admiral Dufek for years of unexcelled co-operation, “Your friends in New Zealand will ever remember you,” he added.